John Ambrose Burch, Jr., life-long resident of Fayetteville, Ga., died September 7, 2012.
A Memorial service will be held at Fayetteville First Methodist Church on September 18 at 11 a.m., with Rev. Mark Westmoreland officiating.
Mr. Burch, the son of John Ambrose and Nell Graham Burch, was born in Inman, Ga. in 1919. After graduating from Fayette County High School, he attended the University of Georgia where he was editor of the Pandora (the University’s yearbook) and graduated with a degree in journalism in 1940. While at UGA, he was also a member of the Sigma Delta Chi Fraternity and the Gridiron Society. After graduation, he, along with his five brothers, served in the Armed Forces during World War II.
After his military service, Mr. Burch returned to Fayetteville and worked as a horticulturalist for many years. Raising daylilies was one of his passions, and his gardens (which were located on his property at the intersections of Gingercake Road and Highway 54), attracted visitors from many places and were featured in “Stay and See Georgia.” Once Mr. Burch moved “into town” on Stonewall Ave., roses became a major preoccupation, and spending hours cultivating these and beautifying his yard were gifts he shared with the entire community.
In addition, Ambrose Burch was the beloved organist at First Methodist Church for 25 years and was a lifelong member of this congregation. Entertaining fellow church members, family, and friends also delighted his heart, and he cherished gathering around a beautifully set table with those whom he enjoyed and loved.
Mr. Burch is survived by his sister Mary B. Harwood, Charlotte, N.C.; sister-in-law Annelle Burch, Fayetteville and many beloved nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his brothers Walter Graham, Howard Lester, William Wilson, Robert Joseph, and James Wilbur and by his sister, Emily B. Scovill.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fayetteville First United Methodist Church, 170 E. Lanier Ave., Fayetteville, Ga. 30214.
Carl J. Mowell has charge of the arrangements. www.mowellfuneralhome.com.
